Did you know a bachelor's in biology is the top major choice for physicians and surgeons? It can help you prepare for careers beyond the medical field, and its focus on biology, math, and other sciences prepares you for jobs in diverse areas. It's also the perfect major if you enjoy learning about the building blocks of living organisms and testing hypotheses.
Learn more about the different types of biology degrees you can pick from and what to expect from an online biology degree program. Explore the interesting career options available to biology majors.
Popular Online Bachelor's Programs in Biology
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Biology Degree Programs
BA vs. BS in Biology: What's the Difference?
Universities all over the country offer bachelor's in biology degrees. Depending on the college, you may be looking at pursuing a bachelor of arts in biology or a bachelor of science in biology. Although both degree programs will emphasize biology and prepare you for a career in biological sciences, there are some key differences.
BA in Biology
A BA in biology is a more well-rounded degree program with more interdisciplinary studies. A BA in biology program requires you to take more liberal arts courses. You will have to complete minimum credit hours in English, arts, history, and philosophy.
More liberal arts requirements with a well-rounded, interdisciplinary focus
May have a foreign language credit requirement
May be easier to double major or minor in a non-science field
Programs may require a capstone project or a thesis in order to graduate
BS in Biology
A BS in biology is more math and science focused. You will still have to complete English courses and may be required to take some art and history credits, but the bulk of your coursework will be in math and science subjects.
Core classes are still required but typically require fewer credits than a BA in biology
May be easier to double major or minor in a related science field
May be able to specialize in a specific area of biology
Courses may be more research-based
Programs may require a research project or paper to graduate
More lab opportunities
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Biology?
Wondering what to expect from an online degree? Earning your degree online is flexible and affordable. Online programs often offer a flat tuition rate regardless of residency. Bachelor's degrees require a minimum of 120 credits in order to graduate. Colleges usually allow you to enroll part-time or full-time.
Depending on the online program, you may have asynchronous coursework that you can complete at your own pace, or you may have lectures and classes that are synchronous and require you to log on at specific times. Because biology majors have lab requirements, you may have to complete some coursework in person.
Many colleges have flexible options for you to complete your labs. For instance, Louisiana State University hosts week-long summer lab intensives on campus or you can partner with a local college and complete your labs with your local college and transfer in your credits.
Completing a degree online does require you to manage your own time. Although many colleges offer online students access to tutoring, IT help, and other student resources, you may find it more challenging to connect with other students and professors.
Core Courses for Online Biology Degrees
Each online bachelor's in biology program will have its own specific requirement, and those requirements will differ depending on whether you enroll in a BA or a BS degree. Your specific course map will also depend on the electives you choose and if you decide to specialize in your degree.
Regardless of the program, there are courses you should expect to take. Your program will have basic biology classes and will require you to take other core science classes as well.
Biology
Biology 101: Fundamental biological concepts and terms
Labs: Putting scientific research and methodology into practice while applying learned concepts
Evolutionary biology: The history of evolution and its effects on species
Cell biology: Cell structure and physiology as well as how it interacts with its environment
Genetics: DNA and the genetic makeup of organisms
Other Sciences
Chemistry: How elements interact by understanding the periodic table, chemical bonding, and chemical reactions
Physics: Major concepts such as gravity, motion, and electricity with an emphasis on mathematical equations
Organic chemistry: A branch of chemistry that focuses on compounds that contain carbon
Math
Biologists must be able to quantify their research. You must be comfortable interpreting data and graphs and be prepared to account for statistics and probability.
Calculus 101: fundamental theorems of calculus and its application
Statistics: interpret and describe data while applying probability
What Can I Do with a BA or BS in Biology?
Majoring in biology can lead to lucrative careers in a variety of job sectors. You can find employment opportunities in the areas of life science, physical science, and social science. From food science to healthcare to zoology, jobs for biology majors are everywhere.
Many biology career options pay higher-than-average wages. The annual mean wage of biological scientists was $100,440 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly twice the median annual wage for all occupations. Between 2024-2034, job positions in life, physical, and social science occupations are projected to grow faster than average for all occupations.
Continuing your education and earning a graduate degree can increase your earnings and lead to more advanced positions. In fact, 60% of biology majors hold an advanced degree.
BA in Biology Careers
Obtaining a BA in biology can lead to many careers, depending on the courses you take. Because of its interdisciplinary nature, a BA in biology can lead to careers in education, writing, and government service. Some jobs with above-average pay include park rangers and technical or grant writers.
| Job | Median Salary (2024) | Job Outlook (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Science Teacher | $64,580 | -2% |
| Park Ranger | $69,060 | 3% |
| Public Relations Specialist | $69,780 | 5% |
| Science Journalist | $60,280 | -4% |
| Technical writer | $91,670 | 1% |
BS in Biology Careers
If you are interested in pursuing a career in science, a BS in biology will prepare you for professions in science settings. Many careers in science are more lucrative than average. You can pursue jobs in healthcare, forensics, or environmental science. Forensic science careers are projected to have a good job outlook.
| Job | Median Salary (2024) | Job Outlook (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Laboratory Technologist | $61,890 | 2% |
| Forensic Science Technician | $67,440 | 13% |
| Wildlife Biologist | $72,860 | 2% |
| Environmental Scientist | $80,060 | 4% |
| Microbiologist | $87,330 | 4% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
Whether it is better for you to get a BA or a BS in biology depends upon your individual strengths, interests, and career goals. If science and math are not strong subjects for you, you may be better off pursuing a BA in biology. If you want to work in research or in a lab, a BS in biology would be better.
